job-Details

Grooming Assistant

  • Image for Employer
    HOUSE OF HOUNDS
  • Image for Job Ref
    Ref: #WPEP-2433456
  • Image for Location
    Unit 7 , Fairways Mall, Donabate , Dublin ,
  • Image Position
    No of positions: 1
  • Image Part Time
    Work Placement and Experience Programme
  • Image Hours per week
    As per WPEP guidelines
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    Work Placement Experience Programme
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    Published On: 15 Feb 2026
  • Image for Closing
    Closing On: 12 Apr 2026

This Work Placement Experience Programme provides Participants with an opportunity to gain meaningful work experience, learning and training while on the programme. This programme is for jobseekers who are in receipt of qualifying social welfare payments and those transferring from a social welfare scheme or an ETB Training Allowance. Your eligibility for this programme will be verified by the Department as part of the application process.


This training and work-experience opportunity is designed to develop essential grooming skills in a professional salon environment. Participants will gain hands-on experience supporting qualified groomers while learning the foundations of safe, effective, and compassionate dog care.

Key learning areas include:
Assisting with bathing and drying dogs
Performing basic grooming preparation tasks
Ear cleaning and nail trimming (under supervision)
Conducting basic health and well-being checks
Maintaining cleanliness and organisation of the bathing and grooming areas
Preparing, handling, and sanitising salon equipment
Upholding professional hygiene and presentation standards
Complying with workplace health and safety policies and procedures
Assisting with appointment scheduling and recording detailed dog notes using the salon’s CRM system

As participants develop confidence and demonstrate competency, additional training may be provided in clipper work and basic styling techniques. Progression into these areas will depend on the trainee’s skill level, aptitude, and overall development throughout the placement.

This comprehensive experience is designed to prepare participants to deliver high-quality care and professional grooming services, while building practical skills, industry knowledge, and confidence within a salon setting. 
This is a training and work experience opportunity; no prior experience in this role is necessary. Accredited and/or sector recognised training will be provided to support your placement. Participants are eligible to participate in the WPEP QQI Work Experience Module which was developed by the Education & Training Boards in collaboration with the Department of Social Protection. This optional module will fulfil your accredited training requirements for the WPEP

Formal Training Includes:
* Pre-health checks
* Ear cleaning and nail trimming
* Bathing, drying, and prep work for styling
* Handling dogs safely and confidently
* Biosecurity protocols in the grooming salon
* Health & safety in the grooming environment
* Access to online course training for continued learning

Informal Training Includes
* Using and managing the salon’s Customer Management System (CMS)
* Appointment scheduling and client communication
* Supporting the day-to-day operations of a grooming salon
* Assisting professional groomers

This is a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience designed to give participants real-world skills and confidence to work in the pet care industry.
  • Sector:

Career Level

  • Not Required

Candidate Requirements

Essential

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